Delhi High Court Refers "Dhurandhar 2" Song Copyright Dispute to Mediation
TL;DR
- Delhi High Court sends copyright dispute over classic film song to mediation.
- Trimurti Films alleges unauthorised use of 'Tirchi Topi Wale' in 'Dhurandhar 2'.
- Court orders defendants to keep detailed financial records; no interim relief granted.
- Next hearing is scheduled for May 6, 2026.
Overview
On April 10, 2026, the Delhi High Court referred a copyright infringement case regarding the alleged unauthorized use of a classic Bollywood song in the upcoming film 'Dhurandhar 2' to mediation. The court declined interim relief at this stage but directed parties to maintain thorough financial records while the dispute proceeds.
What Happened
Trimurti Films, original producers of the 1989 film 'Tridev', filed suit claiming that B62 Studios Pvt Ltd and Super Cassettes Industries Pvt Ltd (T-Series) used elements of their song 'Tirchi Topi Wale' in 'Dhurandhar 2' without permission. The contentious track in the new film is titled 'Rang De Lal (Oye Oye)'.
Justice Tushar Rao Gedela presided over the case and observed that interim relief was unnecessary because 'Dhurandhar 2' was not scheduled for imminent OTT release, reducing any urgent threat to the plaintiff's interests.
The court ordered the defendants to keep meticulous financial records of all earnings related to the film and the disputed song, to ensure full transparency for possible future compensation calculations.
The dispute was referred to mediation and is scheduled for a follow-up hearing on May 6, 2026.
Context
The use of mediation in intellectual property disputes is increasingly encouraged by Indian courts, especially where financial compensation or royalties are the primary contention rather than plagiarism or broader creative rights issues.
This approach aims to resolve commercial conflicts more efficiently and with less adversarial impact than traditional litigation.
Why It Matters
- The case exemplifies the judiciary's support for alternative dispute resolution in complex, high-value IP battles within India's media and entertainment sector.
- Requirement for account-keeping safeguards both parties' interests and allows for precise calculation of damages or royalties if mediation fails.
Sources
-
Delhi High Court Refers "Dhurandhar 2" Song Dispute to Mediation
brandequity.economictimes.indiatimes.com